Capitol Bar & Grill

Right in the beating heart of Canberra, you will find Capitol Bar & Grill, a distinguished restaurant that celebrates dining with flame and finesse. This is a place where modern Australian cuisine takes center stage, bringing together bold, rustic dishes rooted in the finest local ingredients. From the sizzle of the charcoal grill to the elegant antipasto station, every visit is an invitation to savor approachable elegance. The team values quality produce above all, curating menus that shift with the seasons and reflect the rich agricultural bounty of the Australian Capital Territory.

Guests at this Marcus Clarke Street location quickly discover a vibrant atmosphere that balances chic décor with a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Whether you are planning a power breakfast, a leisurely Sunday brunch, or an intimate dinner, the restaurant adapts effortlessly. The experience is defined by not just the food, but the full sensory journey — the aroma of flame-grilled specialties, the clink of glasses filled with award-winning local wines, and genuine hospitality that makes every meal memorable.

Services & Facilities

Capitol Bar & Grill offers a comprehensive range of dining experiences designed to suit every occasion and time of day. The venue combines a full-service restaurant with a dedicated bar and flexible event spaces.

• Breakfast service: Available Monday through Friday from 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM, and Saturday and Sunday from 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM.
• The Brunch Club: A bold Sunday affair from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, featuring a roaming Bloody Mary cart with premium garnish selections.
• Dinner service: Served Monday through Saturday from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM, with the full grill and antipasto menu available.
• Capitol Bar: Open seven days a week from 12:00 PM until late, perfect for pre-dinner sips, shared snacks, and expertly mixed cocktails.
• Group dining and private events: Offers long, lavish tables ideal for celebrations and corporate gatherings, with tailored menus and a dedicated spaces to schmooze.

What We Offer

The kitchen, led by Executive Chef Josh Smith-Thirkell, presents a menu that honors tradition without being traditional. The focus is on large-format proteins and lighter alternatives, all handled with respect for the hero ingredients. Highlights include dry-aged steaks kissed by flame, wild venison schnitzel with Café de Paris butter, and Junee lamb chops that showcase regional New South Wales produce. The shared antipasto station adds an Italian touch, featuring vibrant, seasonal entrées designed to mix, match, and pass around the table.

Beverage Program

The wine list emphasizes Canberra's finest drops alongside rare global gems. The bar program is equally ambitious, with masterful cocktails ranging from spicy, smoky Bloody Marys to summer-ready margaritas. Every glass is poured with intention, and the team takes pride in guiding guests through the region’s diversity.

Signature Dishes & Seasonal Menus

Capitol Bar & Grill continuously refreshes its offerings. Past favorites have included crumbed Tassie scallops, Rigatoni alla Arrabbiata, green pea and mint risotto, and honey panna cotta dressed with flowers from the on-site garden. The commitment to freshness is absolute — Executive Chef Josh frequently harvests ingredients directly from the kitchen garden to inspire new dishes.

Why Customers Choose Us

Diners consistently praise the exceptional atmosphere and the quality of both food and service. The restaurant earns high marks for creating a fine-dining experience that remains relaxed and unpretentious. Guests highlight the knowledgeable staff, with particular mentions for servers who go above and beyond — such as crafting special moments for anniversaries and proposals. The combination of wood-fired cooking, an elegant setting, and sincere hospitality keeps locals and visitors returning.

• Approachable elegance: Upscale dining without stiffness, where jeans and a blazer feel as appropriate as evening attire.
• Local and seasonal focus: Menus driven by the freshest available produce from Canberra and the surrounding regions.
• Versatile venue: Equally suited for a quick pre-theatre bite, a long celebratory dinner, or a corporate lunch.

Serving Canberra & Australian Capital Territory

Located on the ground floor of QT Canberra at 6 Marcus Clarke Street, Capitol Bar & Grill is deeply woven into the fabric of the city’s dining scene. The restaurant draws inspiration from the cool-climate wineries, artisan growers, and passionate producers that define the Canberra region. By championing these local partnerships, the kitchen tells a story of place on every plate.

The team actively participates in the community, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of kitchen garden harvests and hosting media dinners that preview seasonal menus. For visitors exploring the capital, the restaurant provides a genuine taste of modern Australian hospitality, while for residents it serves as a reliable go-to for any occasion that demands great food and great wine.

Hours, Location & Directions

Capitol Bar & Grill welcomes guests at 6 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra ACT 2601. The venue is easily accessible by public transport, car, or bicycle, with free parking available on-site subject to availability. The central location places it minutes from major city attractions.

Opening hours at a glance:

• Breakfast: Mon–Fri 6:30 AM – 10:00 AM; Sat–Sun 7:00 AM – 10:30 AM
• The Brunch Club: Sun 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM
• Dinner: Mon–Sat 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM
• Capitol Bar: Daily 12:00 PM until late

Reservations are recommended for dinner and The Brunch Club, and tables can be booked directly through the website. For large group inquiries or private event requests, the contact page provides a convenient enquiry form, or guests can call the restaurant directly.

Questions Visitors Ask

Is Capitol Bar & Grill suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely. The restaurant is a popular choice for anniversaries, proposals, and milestone birthdays. The team is attentive to special requests and can assist with custom touches to make the event personal. Group dining options are also available for larger celebrations.

Does the restaurant cater to dietary needs?

The kitchen is accustomed to accommodating various dietary preferences and restrictions. Guests are encouraged to note any specific requirements when making a reservation, allowing the chefs to prepare suitable alternatives without compromising flavor or presentation.

What is the price range?

Guests can typically expect to spend between 60 and 160 Australian dollars per person, reflecting the premium ingredients and refined preparation. The Brunch Club and bar snacks offer more accessible entry points for those wanting to experience the venue at a lighter spend.

Is there a bar area for walk-in guests?

Yes, the Capitol Bar operates daily from noon till late and welcomes walk-in guests without a reservation. The bar serves a full selection of cocktails, wine, and a curated snack menu — ideal for a casual drop-in or a pre-dinner drink.

Where can I find the latest menu?

The most current menus are published on the official website at capitolbarandgrill.com. The restaurant also announces seasonal changes and special events through its Instagram and Facebook pages, so following @capitolbarandgrill is the best way to stay informed.